Removable tire characteristic receiver

Abstract

A tire characteristic receiver comprises a receiver circuit, a processing circuit, and a housing. The receiver circuit is configured to receive tire characteristic data wirelessly from a vehicle tire. The processing circuit is configured to receive the tire characteristic data and to provide the tire characteristic data to an operator interface device. The housing is coupled to the processing circuit and the receiver circuit and is removably coupleable to a vehicle interior element.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0001] Ground-based vehicles, such as automobiles, construction and agricultural vehicles, and motorcycles, typically include inflatable tires for contacting the ground. Inflatable tires must be maintained at the proper pressure and temperature, and have adequate tread depth. The condition of the tires can be assessed during regular service visits, but should also be assessed at more frequent intervals by the vehicle owner to ensure optimal performance.[0002] Various techniques are known for monitoring tire characteristics. Those systems offering the greatest ease of use include a tire monitor fixedly mounted within the vehicle which receives tire pressure signals wirelessly from pressure sensors mounted in each tire. In one exemplary system, radio frequency (RF) technology is used as a medium between an RF transmitter coupled to a pressure sensor inserted into a vehicle tire and an RF receiver fixedly mounted in the vehicle. The RF transmitter transmits ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, a tire characteristic monitor comprises a means for receiving tire characteristic data wirelessly from a vehicle tire and a means for providing the tire characteristic data to an operator interface device. The tire characteristic monitor further includes a means for removably coupling the tire characteristic monitor to a vehicle interior element.

Problems solved by technology

One disadvantage of the fixed, in-vehicle system is that it does not provide a suitable solution for service personnel who wish to check characteristics of the tire.

Also, the fixed, in-vehicle system does not allow the vehicle owner to view the tire while it is being filled with air, since the monitor is disposed inside the vehicle and the display is disposed for viewing from the vehicle interior.

The hand-held device has the disadvantages of only being operable while the vehicle is stationary, and requiring the user to work outside of the vehicle.

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